To Journey to the End: Sir Galahad got summoned to became the Shield Hero at a different era alongside Arturia and Shirou. Still debating on who should be the Spear Hero of their time.
To Edgar717: It's still a work in progress but a Lemon will be showing up eventually. Your second idea will have to be shelved for now, but I will consider it.
To NightHawk The Warrior: The Shield of Achilles isn't a Noble Phantasm. It's only supposed to be a Holy Element Shield. I just might change its name if other readers keep on asking that very same question.
- It will take a REALLY long time before they awaken their Spirit Partners so still thinking about that. Should I select one of the Fate Grand Order servants or not? I was thinking of Ishtar for Itsuki and Erishkigal for Motoyasu.
To Dragon Naruto: I never thought about that idea. I will seriously consider it once it's time for Melty's debut in the story.
To The Loud Person: I will see what I can do with that as I'm still not sure how I can make a very believable story of Arturia and Shirou's time as Cardinal Heroes.
- Yes, Skill Enhancement is Sir Galahad's main Strengthening method.
To Doortolight47: I think Eugeo can do a little more damage on Glass, especially when he uses Perfect Weapon Control. Naofumi's attack power is still a bit low so he will probably take more of a support role.
To Luchux: I HIGHLY doubt the Two Idiot Heroes would ever be able to surpass Eugeo at this point. As for Eugeo struggling a little in future battles, that's already in the works as he and his party will be handling Siltvelt's Wave on their own. Strong as Eugeo might be, he can't beat an entire Wave and it's Boss Monster singlehandedly. Even with the Enhanced Armament and Release Recollection.
- Thank you so much for answering my question about the views. :-D
To Slade01: I appreciate your honest opinions and I'm happy to see that you still like it despite it's flaws. What you said about my imperfection is totally valid since I admit that I simply wanted some elements of the anime to stay the same. But I think I was able to answer a few of the plot holes that you pointed out in the previous chapters.
- Myne wasn't able to take ALL of Naofumi's money and items since some of his stuff are safely stored in his Shield Inventory. Eugeo also managed to gift him with 200 Silver Coins shortly after that Fake Trial.
- Yes, Naofumi isn't as desperate as he was in the anime, but his progress is still very slow than he would have liked. He bought Raphtalia as a slave, not only to get a party member, but to LEGALLY get her out of the really bad situation she was in. The only reason why he decided NOT to remove her Slave Crest is just so he can take advantage of the Enhanced Slave Growth Skill he got from absorbing the Slave Ink.
- Eugeo had first hand experience of how the Church and the Aristocrats have a lot of influence and control over the Law. So Eugeo didn't openly do anything during the False Trial and acted like he fell for the lie. But that is just so he can have an easier time to secretly help Naofumi later on. He also simply didn't have any time to come up with a better plan because he LITERALLY just woke up from a good night's sleep when he was told about Naofumi's supposed crime. Not to mention the fact that he's still technically WEAK at that point in time. Being Level 1 and still not capable of using any Enhance Armaments.
- Once again, thank you so much for your honesty and I hope I can do a better job in my writing so you can continue to enjoy this Fanfiction of mine.
To Perry: 50% of your idea will be taken into account in a future chapter. Still not completely sure when it will happen but expect it to show up eventually.
To BlazeBlade: Sorry about that. I was just too lazy to write it down but Naofumi and Eugeo DID get those Chimera forms. After all, both of them decided to do the clean up duty by absorbing a great number of the monster corpses that littered around Lute Village. That definitely includes the remaining body parts of the Chimera.
- Things will be a bit different for Rino as the timeline has been slightly altered thanks to Eugeo's presence. The subject about the other party members that also got sold to slavery will definitely be discussed at the Trial as additional charges against Bitch Princess.
- I didn't know that one of the Sacred Beast is named Kirin.
To stylo1: Eugeo fully knows and accepted that he died so he kinda sees this as a second chance in life... NOT as him being kidnapped. Naofumi is by far the ONLY hero who can claim to be kidnapped since he's the only one who's still alive and well when he got Summoned.
- Both Itsuki and Motoyasu were being EXTREMELY rude and full of themselves because of their Hero status, that reminded Eugeo of two people that he hates. Which is why he sort of blew up like that.
- Eugeo sees this world as real and NOT a videogame since Underworld is, by all sense and purposes, an artificial Isekai. He also gained another reason to fight the Waves since this is also his chance to properly spend the rest of his life with Alice once his Hero duties are completed.
- If you genuinely don't like my Fanfic, then I respect your opinion and you are free to leave and look for another.
VOTE RESULTS (1):
Rino goes with Naofumi - 19
Rino goes with Eugeo - 9
None of the above - 2
From what I gathered in my research of Canon, Motoyasu invited Rino to his party off-screen shortly after his Dual with Naofumi but was never shown in the Anime because she already got sold to slavery before the Wave with the Pirate Ship happened. But because of Eugeo's presence, the timeline of these events will change slightly. I can't find any pictures of what she looks like in the internet, so I might just use another anime character to make visualizing her much easier. Rino's appearance will be shown at the Story's Profile Picture once she shows up in the Fanfic.
VOTE RESULTS (2):
Eugeo unlocks it in Season 1 - 9
Eugeo unlocks it in Season 2 - 17
Eugeo unlocks it between Season 1 and 2 - 2
302 Reviews, 296 Favorites, 415 Follows
IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT:
By the results of all the Votes, Rino will be joining Naofumi's party and Eugeo will unlock one of his predecessors' Strengthening Method at the Season 2 of the anime.
As for Rishia, still up to debate as the ripples that Eugeo will be making in the storyline might change Itsuki for the better. Still not 100% sure though
It was now evening and the grand feast within Castle Town's Royal palace is now in full swing.
A large number of Nobles, especially the eligible ladies, are present to participate in the festivities.
After the King made his celebration announcement, Eugeo walked around to observe everyone's behavior closely.
The ballroom that the Heroes and guests are now occupying had a stairway that led to a balcony, where Aultcray and his fellow Demi-Human haters seemed to be in the middle of a discussion. All around were women playing both violins and harps as background music.
Itsuki is mingling with several nobles who are praising him for a job well done while Motoyasu is unsurprisingly being approached by a multitude of high-society ladies.
Eugeo himself is also being given the same treatment as a few tried to speak and flirt with him. The only reason why the Noble ladies don't stick around for too long is because of the presence of Anna and Rifana. The two girls are both sticking close with Eugeo as they spoon-fed him of the delicious food that's being served. Although Eugeo firmly rejected drinking any Wine, as he embarrassingly admitted that he's actually a light weight and couldn't hold his liquor. Much to the amusement of everyone who heard him.
Several times, groups of men and women would question Eugeo's decision of allowing Demi-Humans such as them to join his party. The disgust and disapproval barely being hidden on all of their faces. So again and again, Eugeo would tell them the modified story of how he first met Anna and Rifana. Causing all of the haters to become tongue tied... largely because they couldn't think of a damn good reason for the Sword Hero to kick the Snake and Weasel out of his party.
Saying anything degrading and insulting towards the two Demi-Humans will be suicide! The Sword Hero will no doubt be enraged if they openly express their animosity against the two girls that he saved.
In the meantime, Kirin is currently having some much needed bonding time with her mother Lady Aoi, as she also arrived for the feast. The mother and daughter pair subtly exchanging hidden notes and information from their Kimono's sleeves as they cheerfully chatted about the Wave. Lady Aoi discretely telling her daughter that they will make sure to keep them updated if anything big happens in Melromarc.
And Finally...
Naofumi, being the anti-social type of guy that he has become, is currently leaning against a window at the back. Trying his best to be as unnoticeable as possible while Raphtalia would frequently walk over for a few short chats with Rifana and Anna. Before picking up several dishes in bulk so she can share them with her master as she ate.
After a short time eating in relative peace, Alice eventually suggested that Eugeo should make sure that his orders concerning that Stupid Captain were carried out in full. Prompting him to approach Aultcray while suggesting to Anna and Rifana to introduce themselves with Lady Aoi in person. And perhaps share a few stories about each other and their fighting styles.
"Excuse me..." Eugeo called out to the King as climbed up the stairs before giving his signature Sword Academy salute, "May I have a word with you for just a few minutes your highness?"
"Ohh... Sir Eugeo." King Aultcray smiled towards Eugeo as he took a moment to dismiss his previous conversations with his associates.
"Once again, I commend you for a job well done in your battle against the Wave. To think we didn't suffer a single casualty in the whole ordeal, it's quite invigorating."
Eugeo felt unsure if the King already knows about the made up story of how he got Demi-Human companions or not as Aultcray seems to be truly happy to see the him, "Now... what is it do you wish to tell me?"
"I just want to report to you that one of your Captains committed a serious act of stupidity during the Wave in Lute Village." Eugeo informed with a serious expression.
"Is that so?" Aultcray asked in genuine confusion, a clear confirmation that the King is actually innocent concerning the fire storm attack that occurred back in Lute, "What exactly did he do?"
"He ordered a combined Fire Spell Assault on Lute Village with no regards whatsoever to the villagers' homes and wether or not there are still people at the blast zone. It's only thanks to my Water Element Sword that my friends and I weren't hurt and Lute Village wasn't burned to the ground." Eugeo answered with an even colder expression, "In a moment of rage, I punched the Captain's face and severely injured his jaw and shattered a few teeth. I then used my Hero Status to order the second Captain to strip his colleague of his rank and be reduced to a Stable boy until the next Wave."
Aultcray and a few of the other nobles that were listening flinched at the Sword Hero's actions, "I just wish to make sure that my orders regarding that former Captain's punishment is going to be carried out...
A Leader who is willing to put innocent lives in danger for his personal agenda, doesn't deserve to have that authority in the first place."
King Aultcray and his associates were all definitely affected by Eugeo's declaration. The king hastily promised that the Captain will be facing the consequences for putting innocent people in danger and for angering the Sword Hero to such a degree. Especially since Eugeo is widely regarded as the most polite and reasonable among the Heroes.
While the King quickly gave the orders that the Stupid Captain must be punished accordingly, Eugeo turns around to reunite with his friends
The Sword Hero was just approaching his party members, who were happily mingling with Lady Aoi, when a loud yell is heard...
"Naofumi!"
Naofumi has been extremely silent as he casually sits by the window sill while everyone else is enjoying the party Trash King has prepared.
Both the Shield and Sword hero predicted that Bitch Princess will try to do something to break up the heroes again. No doubt not liking the small amount of comradery that has 'accidentally' been forming between them because of their victory against the Wave. So Naofumi busied himself by strengthening all of the Skills that he could possibly can in preparation for the upcoming freak show.
Deciding to avoid using the Holy Series as doing so might expose Eugeo's position to the Three Heroes Church...
Naofumi Iwatani - Level 34
Raphtalia - Level 35
[Enhancements Complete]
{Air Strike Shield - Lv. 5}
{Poison Capsule - Lv. 4}
{Dog Bite - Lv. 4}
{Shield Prison - Lv. 3}
{Absorb Break - Lv. 2}
Naofumi couldn't help but smile a tiny bit in contentment as he observed his strength increase even more. The Shielder may not be a battle junkie, but a part of him still wants to see how strong he is now compared to before.
'Take it easy Kouhai.' Mash slightly scolded as she noticed Naofumi's thoughts, 'You have all the time in the world to test your new strength tomorrow. So just relax and enjoy some food from the feast... even if it's from a FAKE King.' Naofumi couldn't help but chuckle at how his Senpai addresses the King as Raphtalia once again spoon-fed him another piece of cake. Much to his surprise when the feast started, the taste is actually less bland compared to before as he can actually somewhat enjoy the food now.
Naofumi once asked Mash about why he had trouble tasting food but she seems to be reluctant to answer. The only thing she is willing to tell him is that he's having a strong mental block which normally locks away a certain aspect of a person because of an extremely negative event. Naofumi couldn't really think of anything aside from the day he got framed by the Bitch Princess, which totally fits as an extremely negative experience.
Mash eventually explains that once he finally overcomes a certain milestone within himself, he will most likely regain his full sense of taste. Kinda like the way Raphtalia no longer gets anymore nightmares ever since she defeated the Two-headed Dog, conquering the trauma that she received from the first Wave in the process. Naofumi is very glad to be informed about that.
The Shield Hero and the Demi-Racoon were just enjoying some juicy Roast Beef strips when the idiotic voice from a certain Spear Hero broke the peaceful background music...
"Naofumi!" The shout echoed around the room.
Naofumi finally straightened himself up as the stage for another freak show is now being set. But this time, he's more than prepared to face them in their own game.
"I heard that this poor girl is your slave and she obeys your every command." Motoyasu accused with a deep scowl as he and Bitch Princess approached him while everyone suspiciously stopped what they were doing just to see what this drama is about.
"What do you care?"
"Watch your tone!" the Spear Hero snapped in anger.
"Yeah, Raphtalia is my slave." Naofumi dismissively answered, aggravating the Spear Hero, as he continued, "I actually purchased her at the Public Slave Trader's tent. Which I might add, is smacked right in the middle of Castle Town where literally anyone can see it."
This genuinely surprised Motoyasu and Itsuki while the gleefully evil smile on Myne's face faltered ever so slightly.
"What the hell are you implying here?!" the Spear Hero retorted
"I'm not implying anything. I'm just stating facts. Slavery is perfectly legal in this crazy place." Naofumi answered dismissively, "I don't know if your blind or just straight up stupid. But there are slaves literally scattered all over this stupid town. If the Nobles in this country are allowed to have slaves, then that means it's perfectly fine for me to have one also."
Unfortunately... as luck would have it, the Spear Hero is both Blind and Stupid. A simple lie from Bitch Princess is enough for Motoyasu to forget about the guilty Nobles and refocused right back to the Shield Hero.
"But we're Heroes in this world! We shouldn't behave that way and you know it!"
"Ohhh... So it's perfectly fine for Raphtalia's previous Masters to have her as a slave?"
"Previous masters?"
"Yup. I'm actually Raphtalia's 4th master. And believe it or not, her condition back then is whole lot worse than now!"
Meanwhile...
"He actually has a slave in his party?" Itsuki frowned in disgust as he shook his head, "Just when I thought he has a chance to redeem himself. How low can he get."
"I hate to say it... but everything Naofumi said is true." Eugeo whispered as he stood beside the Bow hero along with Anna and Rifana, slightly surprising the younger hero at their sudden appearance.
"What do you mean?"
"When I killed the bandits who were abusing Anna and Rifana, I guess you can say that the slavery ownership the men had over these girls got passed down to me." Eugeo explained as both Demi-Humans by his side slightly revealed their chests to display their Slave Crests.
"Which kinda turns them into MY slaves after the deed was done." Eugeo confessed as he scratched his cheek whily looking away from the girls' direction.
"B-B-But if that is the case..." Itsuki stuttered as he blushed furiously at the blatant exposure of Anna and Rifana's sizable breast.
Itsuki greatly admired Eugeo for the heroism that he had back in his homeworld, so the Bow hero made sure to lower his voice so no one else would hear his words of protest, "Why haven't you set them free then?!"
Eugeo scratched his head in slight embarrassment, "First and foremost... they told me and I quote, 'in exchange for saving our virginity from being forcibly taken, we would be more than happy to have you as our new Master.' Believe me when I say this, I definitely did NOT plan to become their new owner... but they simply wouldn't accept it and insisted."
"Guh!" the Bow Hero slightly chocked with his own spit at that revelation. But Itsuki noticed the more serious look on Eugeo's expression when he continued...
"The Second is because, they explained to me that they can no longer return to the village that they came from. Since slavery is LEGAL, they will just end up being enslaved again by another group of evil people that comes their way." Eugeo lowered his head in sadness as he finished his explanation.
"Unfortunately, what Master Eugeo says is the truth. We had nowhere else to go." Anna added as she clinged to the Sword Hero's left side.
"Which is why we both agreed to become his slaves. Because we know that he will never abuse us." Rifana confirmed as she held on to Eugeo's other side.
Itsuki couldn't say anything as he looked at Anna and Rifana clinging to Eugeo's arms. They may be slaves on paper, but it's clear in his eyes that they are being treated with kindness while under the Sword Hero's care. The Bow Hero heavily sighed as he accepted the Sword Hero's words as an acceptable reason to why he had, not one, but two slave girls in his party.
He was about to ask another question but was completely cut off when the situation concerning the Shield Hero has reached a boiling point.
Motoyasu threw one of his gloves at Naofumi's face and pointed his Legendary Spear at him as he yelled...
"I challenge you to a duel! If I win, you're gonna set Raphtalia free!"
Naofumi just sneered as he prepared to throw the glove right back and reject Motoyasu's stupid challenge when Mash spoke in his head.
'Alice told me that we should go for it.' Mash reported, surprise and confusion clearly evident in her voice, as she added, 'She said that the plan that she and Sir Eugeo have set against these people will grow even deadlier if more witnesses gets involved in this whole debacle.'
The Shielder gave Eugeo a short and subtle glance and received a wink in return. So Naofumi decided to put his trust on his fellow Hero and gave his answer.
"All right then. I accept your challenge!"
The Shield Hero's confident response surprised Raphtalia and everyone else.
King Aultcray almost stumbled at the very unexpected turn of events. After all, he was already prepared to intervene so he can force Naofumi into accepting Motoyasu's challenge. But it turns out to be completely unnecessary as Naofumi didn't try to run away like he thought he would.
"So what happens if I win this fight?" Naofumi asked with a slightly prideful tone.
"That won't happen!" Motoyasu retorted in anger, "But if does, things will stay the same."
"What's the matter?!" Naofumi smirked as he pointed his Vibranium Shield towards Motoyasu, "Is the high and mighty Spear Hero too afraid to put something on the line!?"
"I'm not the least bit scared! Especially not from losing against youof all people!"
"If that's the case... in the unlikely event that I somehow managed to beat you. Then I think it's only fair that I take one of your lady friends to join my party!"
"WHAT!?"
Needless to say, Motoyasu and everyone else who already had a deep prejudice against the Shield Hero were all outraged by Naofumi's ultimatum. Raphtalia on the other hand, felt very confused at her Master's out of character behavior.
But as much as the Trash King and Bitch Princess wanted to nullify the Shield Hero's supposed prize if he somehow wins, Naofumi's last words sealed the deal of the duel.
"If the Spear Hero keeps refusing to put something of the same value on the line... then that just proves that he is nothing but a COWARD!"
That insult was just too much for Motoyasu to take lying down. So in a moment of weakness, the Spear Hero finally decided to go against King Aultcray's better judgement and agreed on the condition that Naofumi presented to him for accepting the duel.
'It is so PAINFULLY obvious that this whole battle between the two Cardinal Heroes has been set up before the victory party even began.' Alice groaned in sheer annoyance as Eugeo and everyone who attended the party were quickly escorted to an indoor coliseum.
'They wanted to keep the Shield Hero from rising from the ashes of last months debacle. So they have to do something to maintain the hatred since the battle against the Wave kind of improved the relationship between us Legendary Heroes. Which is something they don't want.' Eugeo nonchalantly agreed as he took his seat right beside Itsuki. Their respective party members sitting on opposite sides of their chosen Cardinal Hero.
Much to Anna's not so secret delight as she gets to hug Eugeo's left arm all she wants while they watched the battle that's about to commence. On the other hand, Raphtalia is sitting beside Rifana, comforting and supporting each other as they both worry for the Shield Hero's behalf. Rifana may have changed her mind on who her favorite Cardinal Hero is, but she still held great respect for the Shield Hero.
Meanwhile, Kirin decided to accompany her mother as they took their seats in a different spot.
It was a bit hilarious when the King and his soldiers tried to gag and take Raphtalia by force a few minutes earlier. The Demi-Racoon tried to reason with the Spear Hero and claims that she remained in Naofumi's party by choice, which the King didn't like.
But since Raphtalia severely outmatched the soldiers in terms of both strength and skill, she easily shrugged all their attempts off. Effortlessly knocking a great number of the soldiers unconscious with just her scabbard until Eugeo and Itsuki finally intervened. Volunteering to watch over Raphtalia during the duration of the duel.
"The duel between the Spear Hero and Shield Hero will now begin! This duel will end ONLY when one of the combatants is either pinned or admit that he has been defeated." a representative from the Three Heroes Church announced as the gates from opposite sides opened to let the fighters out.
' 'You can win this Naofumi!' '
While the audience of the duel are taking their seats, Naofumi is escorted to one of the waiting rooms that leads to the battlefield. The Shield Hero's face twitched when he saw all of the weapons that are lined up all over the walls. This is most definitely the King's subtle way of reminding him about his inability to wield ANY of these weapons.
'Well jokes on him!' Naofumi couldn't help but inwardly laugh at the hilarity of it all.
Because the Trash King who hates the Shield Hero so much, has just inadvertently HELPED him by supplying a large number of powerful swords, spears and bows for his party's use!
Opening up his Stacia Window with a wide grin, Naofumi gleefully stored up every single weapon in the room into his Shield Inventory. Since he no longer has any intention of actually USING the weapons, the Legendary Shield didn't shock him. Planning to browse over them later and giving Raphtalia a stronger sword for her to use.
'I don't know if I should scold you for stealing or just laugh at the irony of this entire situation.' Mash giggled a little before asking solemnly, 'Did you really had to ask for one of the Spear Hero's party members? It feels kinda wrong."
'Sorry if you feel uncomfortable Senpai... But if he wants to put my party member on the line, then it's only right that he puts one of his own on the line also. Otherwise, I would still be regarded as the loser if I don't receive anything in return for this troublesome duel.' Naofumi replied.
'I guess I can't argue with that logic. Just make sure to treat her right of you do win... though I'm quite confident that you would be the winner.' The female Shielder sighed before changing the subject...
'I think we should let Sir Eugeo to Weapon Copy the swords that you acquired later when we get some privacy with him.'
'Yeah. I will make sure to do that.'
Pretty soon, the representative from the Three Heroes Church finished announcing the conditions for the duel. The gates then opened for the two Heroes to enter the battlefield. Naofumi didn't pay any mind to the judgmental looks that Trash King and the rotten nobles are giving him nor the disturbing smile the Pope of the Three Heroes Church had on his face.
The Shielder simply focused on his opponent who is busy waving at the audience. The Spear Hero receiving a good luck from the Bitch Princess.
Twirling his Legendary Spear with a flourish, Motoyasu then took a battle stance. "Naofumi! Be a man and admit defeat!"
'His stance is terrible.' Mash couldn't help but comment as Naofumi casually chose to remain silent.
Deciding to morph his shield into the [Chimera Claw Shield] , one of the newest additions to his arsenal. The form has the same shape as the Captain America Shield, but is covered with green dragon scales and several spikes at the edges. The green gem embedded at the center seemingly being held by the three razor sharp dragon hands.
'I have battled against countless Lancers before back in my day... friends and foes alike. And every single one of them would be extremely irritated if they ever saw this Hero of the Spear right now.'
'I'm not the least bit surprised.' Naofumi mentally replied as he took a more solid stance, 'Not only is Motoyasu stupid, but both him and Itsuki rejected Eugeo's offer in teaching them basic combat during our first day in this world.'
'How pitiful.'
Completely clueless at the mental insults aimed at him, Motoyasu morphed his spear into a stronger form as the judge declared...
"Ready...? BEGIN! ! !"
Motoyasu wasted no time in dashing towards Naofumi before launching himself into the air. Coming down with a few piercing strikes that Naofumi effortlessly countered. Unabated, Motoyasu twirled in the air before delivering a follow-up strike with the spear's blade as his feet touched down on solid ground.
' ' So slow...' '
The Kouhai-Senpai pair thought in unison as sparks flew in the air when Naofumi blocked the final piercing attack without giving an inch.
"Not too bad! I guess the Shield Hero has a few moves!" Motoyasu remarked with a cocky grin as the two Heroes paused in a short stalemate, their Legendary Weapons interlocked against each together.
"That's only partially true..." Naofumi murmured, the statement confusing the Spear Hero as the Shielder continued, "You're just way too slow! Shield Counter!"
The [Chimera Claw Shield] glowed a darker green light before releasing a large burst of energy. Blowing the Spear Hero several feet away while inflicting some damage, Motoyasu's HP going down by a small amount!
Motoyasu felt quite pissed as he couldn't believe Naofumi actually managed to draw first blood. He's just the weakling Shield Hero for crying out loud!
Deciding to take this fight a little more seriously, Motoyasu pointed his spear towards the Shield Hero as its crimson gem glowed. The moment the glow disappeared into the jewel...
"Slow you say?! Then try this on for size! Chaos Spear!" Motoyasu's Weapon skill unleashed numerous jabs that turned into beams of light projectiles towards his opponent.
To most people, the flurry of light beams are incredibly fast and could deal some serious damage. But against a battle hardened veteran like Mash, this is nothing more than child's play.
'Use the Tower version and anchor it to the ground!'
'Right!'
In a split second, the [Chimera Claw Shield] enlarged into its tower shield version and Naofumi quickly stabs its pointed base into the earth.
BOOM! CLANG! CLANG! CLANG! CLANG!
"Master Naofumi!" Raphtalia yelled in worry as a small dust cloud formed around her Master.
But there's no need for her to worry as the Shielder successfully defended himself against all of Motoyasu's attacks. With a single swing of the enlarged [Chimera Claw Shield] , Naofumi blew the dust cloud away and revealed himself to not be the least bit injured!
Much to Motoyasu's and everyone else's shock (except for Eugeo and Alice of course).
"Is that all?" Naofumi couldn't help but take a jab at his opponent's ego with an amused grin, "If so... then it's MY turn!"
The Shield Hero quickly made his way towards Motoyasu, dodging the spear strike that had come to impede him before holding the tower shield with both hands...
"Shield Swing!"
The enlarged [Chimera Claw Shield] shined a bright yellow light before Naofumi took a mighty swing at Motoyasu's unguarded torso!
"Aggghhh!"
The air got forced out of Motoyasu's lungs as the attack has dealt some damage and sent him sliding backwards once again. But the Shield Hero isn't done quite yet...
"Air Strike Shield Cannon!"
A spinning spectral shield slammed at Motoyasu's chest before Naofumi finished his assault with...
"Poison Capsule!"
"Shield Prison!"
A sphere of poison surrounded and immobilized the still recovering Spear Hero before another layer of metal shields and chains caged him completely inside.
"Hey! What is this stuff?!" Motoyasu couldn't help but ask as he struggled to break free.
"I'm actually glad you asked! That is a makeshift death trap that I came up with that is almost filled to the brim with Poison!" Naofumi gleefully answered as he gave his opponent a quick scan. Realizing that all of the attacks that he dished out so far has managed to reduce the Spear Hero's HP down to 78%. And it's now steadily dropping as the Poison Capsule skill has successfully inflicted the Poison Damage debuff.
With his opponent trapped in the poisonous cage for the time being, Naofumi decided to take a look at the audience. The Trash King and his fellow Shield Hero haters looked away in disgust while the Pope's once peaceful smile has turned into a grimace.
On the other hand, Eugeo along with his companions and Raphtalia discretely nodded towards him in approval. Even Itsuki seems to be looking at him with new found respect, at least for his fighting capabilities.
'In my opinion, we can actually win this duel by just waiting for the Spear Hero to surrender. The only problem is... Well...' Mash didn't even need to finish her sentence as Naofumi quickly noticed the problem that she wanted to tell him about.
"It can't be..."
"At this rate, the Shield Hero might win."
"Does that lowly Shield Hero think he can win against the Spear Hero?"
"Have you no respect at the sanctity of a duel!?"
'It's obvious that they're just baiting you to release Motoyasu so he could get a chance to make a counter attack.' Mash commented worriedly for what her Kouhai plans to do.
'If they want me to release him so badly... then I might as well make it as painful and damaging as I could possibly can.' Naofumi grinned.
"Fine then! You people want me to release your precious Spear Hero so bad! Then have a nice ride Motoyasu!" Naofumi yelled as he swung his shield against the Shield Prison...
"Shield Bounce!"
For the next 20 seconds, all of Naofumi's haters could only watch in horror as the cage of shields where Motoyasu is being imprisoned got smashed around the battlefield like a giant iron pinball.
Itsuki, Eugeo and the rest of the gang, on the other hand, couldn't help but laugh a bit at the hilarious kind of torture that Naofumi has just cooked up to force Motoyasu to admit defeat.
Once the iron ball of shields started to run out of momentum, Naofumi finally released the Spear Hero from his confinement. Motoyasu dropped down to his knees in dizziness as soon as he got freed from the ball ride of hell. His body being completely covered by bumps and bruises.
Naofumi gave his fellow hero a quick scan once again and saw that Motoyasu's HP is now down to 54%. And it's still dropping because the Poison Damage debuff is still in effect! The Shield Hero's HP on the other hand is still well in the green, being at 98%. Only receiving miniscule damage during the time he blocked Motoyasu's Chaos Spear Skill early on.
"It's time for you to admit defeat!" Naofumi declared as he approached the still kneeling Spear Hero.
"Even if these ARISTOCRATS refuse to believe what they are seeing, it's so obvious that I WIN this fight! So do you want even more embarrassment?! Huh tough guy?!"
"What makes you think I will surrender now?" Motoyasu weakly growled at him as he struggled to get back to his feet.
"Very well then." Naofumi simply sighed as he transforms his weapon into the plain Vibranium Shield and aimed it at the kneeling Spear Hero's head with the intention of knocking him unconscious.
"Shield Ca-"
'Kouhai! On your left!'
Just in the nick of time, Naofumi managed to twist his body and defend himself from the powerful wind magic spell that was fired right at him. Unfortunately, even though he didn't receive any damage whatsoever, the attack still blew him a few feet away from the nearly defeated Spear Hero.
Looking at where the Magic Spell came from, he saw...
'THAT BITCH! ! !' Naofumi cursed in his head as he glared at the red-headed slut that is looking at him with a malicious smile as her hand is still glowing with magic residue!
Not only that, but the Spear Hero who is already at the brink of defeat just a few moments earlier, appeared from the dust cloud with the Poison Debuff gone and replaced with several enhancement buffs that are boosting all of his stats!
"Take this Naofumi! Air Strike Javelin!"
"Air Strike Shield Cannon!"
The piercing Legendary Spear Skill and the spinning Legendary Shield Skill clashed at the center of the battlefield in a showdown of which is stronger than the other! Sparks were flying everywhere and numerous cracks formed at the pavement below the impact zone where the struggle of power is occurring. Even though the clash only lasted for a few seconds, it still felt much longer than that until...
KABOOOOOOMMM! ! !
To the surprise of many, the power struggle between their attacks more or less ended in a draw! The two Weapon Skills cancelled each other out in quite an explosive manner. Although Naofumi still suffered more damage from the explosion because of the cheat enhancements that Motoyasu just received earlier.
As the mushroom cloud cleared up in the coliseum and the two Heroes can finally see each other... Motoyasu decided to go for the finishing blow while Naofumi's best means of attack is still under cooldown.
Motoyasu pointed his Legendary Spear upwards as a pillar of lightning erupted from the blade's tip...
"LIGHTNING SPEAR!"
With a forward thrust, a large beam of electricity is fired towards the Shield Hero!
Naofumi is just about to take a gamble and use Shield Prison on himself to defend against the upcoming attack when Mash screamed in his head...
'Quick! Use Absorb Break! NOW! ! !'
Naofumi never considered using Absorb Break simply because he still haven't field tested it yet in actual combat. But with no other choice except to put his trust on his Senpai, Naofumi hastily switched gears and followed Mash's advice. The three claws on the [Chimera Claw Shield] started spinning rapidly around its glowing green gem. Facing the lightning attack head on, the Shield Hero goes for broke...
"ABSORB BREAK!"
Everyone who is watching the dual just couldn't believe their eyes at what happened. As they clearly saw how the lightning attack which is supposed to defeat the insignificant Shield Hero, is not only being blocked but also being absorbed by the Legendary Shield!
The Lightning Spear skill eventually fizzled out and Motoyasu is more than just shocked to see that Naofumi managed to survive one of his most powerful attacks!
Naofumi gasped rapidly for breath as he is now a little exhausted. Using so many skills in quick succession in the span of just this one battle is starting to take its toll on him.
The two Cardinal Heroes were just about start their battle anew and go for Round 2 when out of the blue...
"THAT IS QUITE ENOUGH! ! !"
A loud, feminine voice echoed throughout the coliseum that demands absolute obedience... or else face the consequences!
Eugeo and Alice watched the entire duel in silent amazement and fascination. Feeling quite proud to see just how far Naofumi has come with the very limited help that he has been given since arriving into this world.
According to Eugeo's appraisal skill, Naofumi is Level 34 while Motoyasu is Level 45. One would think that with such a large gap between their Levels, the entire duel should have already been decided in Motoyasu's favor. Which is no doubt what the King's intention for setting up this entire fight in the first place!
But the Demi-Human haters have no idea, that while it's true that Naofumi is lower in Levels, the Shield Hero makes for it with pure skill and strategic tactics. Not to mention the fact that Naofumi has already awakened the Legendary Shield's Spirit, Mash. Thanks to Mash's training and guidance, Eugeo can now consider Naofumi as a capable warrior. Although there is always room for improvement in the future.
On the other hand, the ability to attack directly and possessing higher Levels and Stats is by far the only advantage the Spear Hero has over the Shield Hero. Motoyasu's spearmanship is just plain terrible and cringing to watch. Eugeo may be a swordsman and not a spearman, but there is just so many openings on Motoyasu's stance that it isn't even funny!
And by the looks of things, the Spear Hero is also purely dependent on the Weapon Skills themselves to fight his battles. He wasn't implementing any sort of strategy or actual prowess into his attacks at all!
So after effortlessly tanking Motoyasu's flashy {Chaos Spear} attack, Naofumi finally went for the offensive. Successfully nailing a barrage of Weapon and Combat Skill attacks, dealing a moderate amount of damages before ending it with the Spear Hero getting locked up in a {Shield Prison} . And to put the icing on the metaphorical cake, it's filled up with poison!
"Naofumi and his shield actually have the upper hand." Itsuki mumbled to himself as he watched the battle unfold before turning to his fellow hero sitting beside him, "Are those the Combat Shield Skills that he managed to unlock thanks to the teachings you gave him back then? During our first day?"
Eugeo casually nodded before adding, "But it isn't just that, Naofumi is also fighting smart. He is using his Weapon and Combat Skills in creative ways to directly and indirectly deal some damage to Motoyasu."
"The Spear Hero's lack of actual combat training is also another factor to be considered." Anna also pitched in as she rubbed her breast against her Master Eugeo's arm. Causing the young man to blush slightly while trying to ignore the softness of the skin contact, "I may not be a spearwoman, but it's obvious to me that Sir Motoyasu has no idea how to effectively wield that Legendary spear of his when he's not using any special Weapon Skills."
Itsuki couldn't really say anything to reject that claim. He himself have no actual experience in using any sort of weapon in combat other than just shoot his arrows against his enemies with his bow.
A few moments later, they were soon given a good laugh when the rotten Nobles complained about the Shield Hero's idea of imprisoning their precious Spear Hero in a poisonous cage. Claiming it to be a dishonorable way to fight in a duel between Heroes. So Naofumi had the bright idea of smashing the still confined Motoyasu all over the battlefield as a response.
But when Naofumi was just about to end the dual by knocking Motoyasu unconscious, that's when things started to get really messed up.
It's clear to everyone that Motoyasu received outside help when Naofumi got blown away by a Wind spell, but the biased representative judge didn't say a word. Eugeo definitely noticed the grins on a few of the other people's faces. Especially when Motoyasu powered up his Legendary Spear and fired a powerful beam of electricity at the seemingly vulnerable Shield Hero.
Unfortunately for them, they were all very disappointed when they witnessed how Naofumi managed to survive the assault by absorbing Motoyasu's attack into his Legendary Shield.
The battle was just about to restart again when Eugeo and Alice finally had enough and decided that now is the perfect moment to put their plan to action.
"THAT IS QUITE ENOUGH! ! !"
Eugeo raised his Legendary Sword, acting as if he's just as shocked as everyone else, as it started to shine with a dazzling holy light.
"D-D-Did your Legendary Weapon just... talked?!" Itsuki stuttered as he and the rest of the occupants of the entire coliseum just stopped what they were doing. Watching as Eugeo's Legendary Sword practically flew out of his grasp and floated at the very center of the coliseum.
What happens next will forever be regarded by all of the witnesses who are not in the know, as a genuine divine intervention. Because right before their very eyes, they watched the Legendary Sword transform into a bonafide angel sent from the heavens above.
Finally... Alice has now obtained the physical body that she has always wanted.
It's still NOT a perfect body mind you. The body is merely a concentrated manifestation of Eugeo's SP and MP, not a true human body of flesh and blood. At the moment, Alice's time limit is largely dependent on Eugeo's energy. As long as Alice doesn't use any extensive Spells, her physical body can last for approximately 20 minutes.
She can only use this Materialization ability once a day since Eugeo just unlocked this very recently. Spending 100 Fluctlight Points as soon as he achieved the Level 50 requirement thanks to the EXP they got from the Wave.
However, as Eugeo and Alice get stronger with some serious effort and a significant amount of time, it just might be possible for her artificial body to eventually evolve and become a real one.
But for now...
Returning to the situation at hand...
Alice opens her physical eyes for the very first time since arriving in this world. Silently adjusting a few of the plans that she and Eugeo formulated in her head as she used her angel wings to slowly lower herself to the battlefield below.
The original plan was actually just Alice using her telepathy to speak with as many witnesses as possible. Messing up any of the schemes that the Church and the King would try to throw at Naofumi's way. All the while subtly exposing a tiny bit of the Church's and the King's corruption. But this new ability of hers, it just made things several times easier and better than before.
As soon as Alice's feet touched the ground, she gestured towards Naofumi and loudly announced for everyone to hear...
"By my authority as the Spirit of the Legendary Sword... I, Alice Synthesis 30, hereby declare the Hero of the Shield as the winner of this duel!"
Alice was met by absolute silence before she gave the King, the Princess and the Pope some EXTREMELY intimidating glares.
"I know fully well that the Disgraceful Princess over there fired a Wind Magic spell at the Shield Hero. And I also know that a few of the King's mages have casted status enhancements to aid the Spear Hero. So don't even TRY to deny it as I WILL know if you're lying and I will not tolerate such a disgusting abuse of authority!"
Giving the Judge of the dual and some of the audience a sideways glance, "Especially since it's so painfully OBVIOUS that you turned your heads away. Ignoring the blatant display of cheating that happened in front of you during this duel."
The guilty judge could do nothing but accept the holy angel's words while King Aultcray, Princess Malty and even the Pope are starting to lose their composure as they are all completely tongue tied! Tricking and lying to the Legendary Heroes is one thing. Because despite their great power, the Heroes are still mortal humans that can be manipulated.
This time though, anything they try to say or do will instantly be exposed as lies!
"Then please! Let us have a rematch!" Motoyasu finally managed to speak up after being starstrucked by the Sword Spirit's beauty.
"Not only is that Shield bastard over there forcing that poor slave girl of his to fight his battles. But now he's trying take one of my own companions to join his party. Obviously turning her into another one of his slaves! I'm sure you don't approve of this kind of behavior from any of us humans. Especially when the one doing the deed is one of the Legendary Heroes!"
A few moments of silence ensued as Alice's opinion for the Spear Hero actually increased by a tiny bit. Causing her to give Motoyasu an approving smile, "At the very least, your heart is at the right place... Oh Hero of the Spear. But I cannot nor do I even need to grant your request as you have nothing to worry for the girl's wellbeing. You have my word that she will be treated fairly as I will PERSONALLY make sure of that."
With the beautiful angel's assurance, Motoyasu ever so slowly, decided to swallow his pride and stand down. Accepting his defeat by disqualification for receiving outside help from Myne and the King's magic users.
With the most troublesome hero pacified, Alice finally set her sights on the main culprits of this entire mess. Using her wings to fly up and float at the very center of the coliseum, Alice loudly started her speech while spreading her arms...
"Listen well, all of you. For it has come to my attention that a great number of you people have gravely disregarded the importance for all FOUR Heroes to stand united in combating the Waves! As you are witnessing today before your very own eyes, each of the Cardinal Weapons contain a Representative Spirit like myself. And each Spirit controls a certain aspect of this world that helps in maintaining the survival of all its inhabitants."
Alice pointed a finger at Motoyasu
"You, Sir Motoyasu, are the Hero of Terraria, the Goddess of the Earth. All of the bountiful harvest, herbs and treasures that comes from the soil and vegetations are part of the Spirit of the Spear's domain."
Alice then pointed at Itsuki
"You, Sir Itsuki, are the Hero of Solus, the Goddess of the Sun. The warmth, the rain and the winds of the wide open skies... all of them fall upon the Bow Spirit's control."
Alice turned to face Naofumi
"You, Sir Naofumi, are the Hero of Lunaria, the Goddess of the Moon. The tides, the rivers, the seas, and the blessings we get from the watery depths all fall at the Shield Spirit's dominion."
Finally, Alice gestured towards Eugeo and herself, "As for my partner Sir Eugeo, he is the Hero of Stacia, the Goddess of Creation and Life. Maintaining the order between the three domains, the absolute fairness between the inhabitants and other important matters rest under MY jurisdiction."
After giving the people a few seconds to let her words sink in, Alice concluded her piece by finishing it with a very venomous tone...
"What do you think will happen if even just one of us DIES because of all of your stupidity?"
It goes without saying that after Alice reverted to her Sword form and floats back to Eugeo hands, all the witnesses who left the Royal Palace felt shellshocked.
Although the Shield Hero's enemies STILL refused to stop their self given quest in tormenting him, the appearance of the Sword Spirit has done major damage on their power among the people.
Despite the Pope's best efforts in containing the miraculous event that occurred during the dual, word about the Angel's message still reached a few of his other followers. Creating turmoil and division within his very own sect. It will probably take him weeks or a couple of MONTHS before he gets everything back in working order again!
To make things even worse, the Pope couldn't even label the Sword Hero as an enemy to the Church! The message directly came from a literal Angel from the heavens for crying out loud!
King Aultcray was also having his own problems as some of his old allies amongst the Nobility have decided to back out from his crusade against the Shield Hero. Not wanting to anger a literal Angel that was sent by the Divine to reprimand them for their unruly actions. A few of them even planned to lie low for the time being to escape the crossfire that might happen if King Aultcray continues his misguided desire for vengeance.
Even Myne had to put a little effort in apologizing to Motoyasu for causing him to get disqualified. She reluctantly had to make some arrangements and decide who among the girls in the Spear Heroes party will be handed over to the Shield Hero. The evil princess might not have planned to uphold her end of the bargain, but even she didn't want to anger the Sword Spirit even more by not giving the Shield Hero his prize for winning the duel.
As for the Heroes...
Motoyasu and Itsuki are both pondering about the Sword Spirit's words in their respective spare rooms inside the palace. This definitely wasn't in the game that they played before back in their homeworlds. So they planned to ask Eugeo how they can also unlock the Spirits within their own Legendary Weapons.
On the other hand...
Eugeo and Naofumi along with their respective companions were having a small celebration at the secluded camp site that the Sword Hero has been using. It was there that Alice explained to everyone the details and possible repercussions of what tonight's events will bring. Eugeo confessed that the majority of their plan stemmed from Alice's knowledge of how a Religious group works alongside the politics of a government. Also admitting that a little of their homeworld's religious beliefs were mixed in to the story that they declared to the masses.
Naofumi felt really good as not only did he technically defeated Motoyasu in the duel, but he also tasted a sweet victory against his other oppressors.
And to put the cherry on top...
Raphtalia approached Naofumi when they were just getting ready to sleep for the night. She once again made a vow that even if she ever got freed from her contract with him, she would still continue to be his sword, friend... and maybe as something more...
Naofumi didn't notice it until the next day that his sense of taste has finally returned to normal! Fully enjoying the delicious sandwiches that Raphtalia made for him for breakfast!
The reason why Mash didn't tell Naofumi about the Curse Series WILL be explained in a later Chapter.
WHEW! ! ! THIS CHAPTER WAS SO EXHAUSTING TO WRITE! ! !
I hope you all enjoyed this chapter since it took me 12 days of thinking and brainstorming to get all of this writing done.
I will be taking 1 week of rest since my brain is starting to overheat again. I hope all of you understand.
As always, thank you for all the reviews, favorites and follows. I'm open for compatible suggestions and any advice that you readers could give. As for those nasty Reviewers who loves to Insult us authors, please just leave us alone.
Stay safe from the Coronovirus!